φροντίζω
Lemma: φροντίζω
Translation: to take care of; to look after; to care for (verb)
Etymology: From ancient Greek φροντίζω, derived from φροντίς (phrontis) meaning 'care, thought, concern'. The root φρον- relates to thinking and mental activity, also found in words like φρόνηση (wisdom) and σωφροσύνη (prudence). The English word 'phrenology' shares this root, relating to the mind. This verb emphasizes the thoughtful, deliberate aspect of caring - not just emotional care, but active, mindful attention and responsibility.
Example Usage
Φροντίζω τους γονείς μου.
I take care of my parents.
Ποιος θα φροντίσει τα φυτά όσο θα λείπεις;
Who will look after the plants while you're away?
Ποιος θα φροντίσει τα φυτά όταν θα λείπουμε;
Who will look after the plants when we're away?
Φρόντισε να είσαι εδώ στις οκτώ.
Make sure you're here at eight.
Φροντίζει πάντα για τα πάντα.
She always takes care of everything.
Φροντίζω τη γιαγιά μου κάθε μέρα.
I take care of my grandmother every day.
Φρόντισε να κλείσεις την πόρτα.
Make sure to close the door.
Ποιος φροντίζει τα παιδιά όταν λείπεις;
Who looks after the children when you're away?
Mnemonics
- Think 'front-izo' - you put someone at the front of your concerns
- Remember 'phrenology' (study of the mind) - φροντίζω involves mindful, thoughtful care
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, φροντίζω carries strong connotations of family responsibility and duty. It's commonly used when discussing care for elderly parents, children, or family obligations. The concept extends beyond mere assistance to encompass a sense of moral obligation and thoughtful attention.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: φροντίζω means to care for while φοβάμαι means to fear - they share the φρ- beginning but have completely different meanings
Confused word:
Φοβάμαι τα σκυλιά.
I'm afraid of dogs.
Notes: Both start with φρ- but the similarity ends there - context usually makes the meaning clear
Mnemonic: φροντίζω has 'ντ' like 'tend' (to tend to someone), φοβάμαι has 'β' like 'be afraid'